Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A method for determining the Out, Off, On, and In (OOOI) times for commercial air transport aircraft, based on parametric data routinely sampled and presented in a multiplexed data stream to the Flight Data Recorder. In a preferred embodiment, this method is used in conjunction with a system capable of recording, analyzing, and automatically forwarding recorded flight data. 'Out' means out of the gate, 'Off' means off the ground, 'On' means on the ground, and 'In' means in at the gate. Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), brake pressure, magnetic heading, ground speed, flight number and flight leg, engine start/stop, and air/ground switch are currently available parameters that are sampled and presented to the Flight Data Recorder in a multiplexed data stream. These parameters are used by this method in various combinations to determine the OOOI times for a given flight. 'Out' and 'Off' times can be determined through analysis of these parameters and downloaded immediately after takeoff over a RF Link to a ground station. 'On' time can likewise be determined through analysis of these parameters and downloaded immediately after landing over a RF Link to a ground station. 'In' time can be determined from analysis of these parameters and downloaded while the aircraft is parked at the gate. These parameters can also be recorded and forwarded at the end of the flight to an analysis station where the OOOI times are subsequently computed on a different computing platform.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim